December 30, 2021, 6:52 a.m. HST
More than 1,800 gifts were distributed to needy keiki in Maui County as part of the 7th Annual Holiday Toy Drive by Maui United Way and Friends of the Children’s Justice Center, with sponsorship from Pacific Media Group, owner of Maui Now.
“Friends of the Children’s Justice Center knows the importance of collaboration and how it creates the greatest impact in the lives of those in need,” said Executive Director Paul Tonnensen. “We are honored to partner with Maui United Way year after year to ensure that no child goes without a gift this Christmas. The thousands of gifts send a heartwarming message to children during the holidays that there is a caring and loving community out there for them.
The spirit of giving was alive and well this holiday season, with Bank of Hawai’i serving as the primary depository.
With the overwhelming support of the Maui community, 100% of requests for children in need in Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi have been met. All toys were distributed by Maui United Way’s nonprofit agency partners as well as Friends of the Children’s Justice Center partners.
“Special mahalo to our sponsor PMG, Bank of Hawaiʻi, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Maui, Carden Academy, Castaway Construction, Makawao Veterinary Clinic, Chris and Catherine Brock, and all donors and partners for your support in the success of the campaign to this year,” Maui United Way President and CPO Nicholas Winfrey said. “It was very touching to see how many people chose to do more good even in these difficult times.”
To learn more about Maui United Way or to make a contribution, visit www.mauiunitedway.org or call 808-244-8787.
